Ground Plan and Set.

Over the past couple of days I have taken measurements and walked round the studio theatre to get a feel for the area and therefore create a ground plan. I've never felt technical drawings come naturally to me and I find it much easier when I can see the place that I am drawing, rather than using measurements alone. I think it is very true that a set designer has to use their feet as well as their mind to design and also that through practice technical drawing skills will improve.
One of the most exciting and challenging things about this project is when things change and get added or cut. I think these elements are helping me to be more fluid as a designer and not to be afraid to change or experiment with my original design. One of the most useful and unplanned set elements is the mezzanine floor. This is excellent not only in that medieval taverns actually had a hall with a floor like this, but also many acting opportunities derive from it. These unexpected changes can also bring up unseen challenges. Below is my initial solution as to how the tavern signs in the play could be changed using the mezzanine floor and scaffolding.

I am also considering the fabric for the coverings. Ideally I'd like a thick linen but I need to consider:

• Weight.
• Strength - will have a lot of use from the actors.
• Non-slip/Textured - the actors will be walking on the coverings.
• Authenticity - ideally something medieval, this rules out calico as it is cotton.
• Width - one seam in the centre could be covered as there is another piece in the design that goes down the centre, or it could be made with a seam all round the edge of the table.

I will consider all these elements and discuss with my makers the best way to create the coverings, whilst also looking at my original fabric choice and any other options if necessary.